Differences in Use of Health Services Between White and African American Children Enrolled in Medicaid in North Carolina

Racial differences in health status and use of health services persist in the United States and are not completely explained by differences in socioeconomic status. This study examines differences in use of health services between white and African American children enrolled in Medicaid and compares use of primary preventive services, diagnosis and treatment of selected common childhood illnesses, and Medicaid expenditures. African American children had consistently lower Medicaid expenditures and lower use of health services than white children. They were also significantly less likely to receive well-child and dental services.